The Liberal Democrats have accused Essex County Council's Reform UK administration of creating a “chilling” atmosphere for LGBTQ+ people after questioning Pride displays in the county's libraries.
The row follows a decision by the council earlier this year to tell library staff not to promote events unrelated to their day-to-day activities during Pride Month. Although several libraries continued to host Pride-themed book displays, the move sparked concern among campaigners and opposition politicians, who argued it sent the wrong message to LGBTQ+ residents.
Liberal Democrat councillor David King said the administration's handling of the issue had been deeply concerning.
“The manner of the new administration's decision and how it has been read, and their reaction to Pride material is chilling – for all of those for whom Pride is important to their sense of belonging and inclusion in our society,” he said.
King's comments came after council leader Peter Harris of Reform UK defended the administration's position, claiming some Pride displays contained material he believed was “inappropriate” and arguing that libraries should not promote anything that could be viewed as “ideological” or potentially upsetting to parents. However, Harris did not specify which books or materials he was referring to.
For LGBTQ+ campaigners, the controversy has become about more than library displays. Critics argue that Pride-themed book collections help LGBTQ+ people, particularly young people, see themselves reflected in public spaces and provide access to information, support and stories that are often missing elsewhere.
The dispute has also reignited concerns about the future of diversity and inclusion initiatives under Reform UK-controlled councils. A protest organised by Save Our Libraries Essex is due to take place outside County Hall ahead of the council's next full meeting, with politicians from across the political spectrum expected to attend.
Opposition figures have questioned whether Pride displays were ever a source of concern for library users. Conservative group leader Lee Scott said no complaints had been made about such displays when his party ran the authority.
Despite the criticism, Harris said the council had received support from residents for its approach and insisted that any future displays should be age-appropriate. He also stressed that libraries would continue to mark events including International Women's Day, Black History Month and Windrush Day.
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